RECAP: Northern California Flooding Kills One, Triggers Rescues and Evacuations

Heavy rain and repeated atmospheric rivers triggered widespread flooding across Northern California over the weekend, killing one person in Redding and prompting rescues and evacuations across the region. Rising rivers and overflowing creeks inundated communities, stranding vehicles and forcing swift-water rescues. In Placer County, emergency crews rescued a baby in a carrier and nine people after the South Yuba River overtook a home. Flooding also impacted Mendocino and Humboldt counties, where roads turned into rivers of muddy water and animals were left stranded. Authorities urged residents to avoid travel and warned motorists not to cross flooded roadways.

US: Heavy Rain from Winter Storm Triggers Flooding in Willits, California

The National Weather Service issued a flood warning for Willits on Sunday morning, December 21, amid rising water levels. The area is forecast to receive between 1 and 3 inches of rain through Monday, December 22, with higher totals possible at higher elevations. The National Weather Service warns motorists never to attempt to cross flooded roadways. From Arcata to Shelter Cove, heavy rain inundated valleys and caused creeks to overflow their banks, and turned roads into rivers of fast-moving muddy water.

US: Santa Cruz Wharf Collapses As High Waves Batter Northern California Shoreline 4

Dangerously high waves battered the northern California coastline, including Santa Cruz County, on Monday, December 23. Three people fell into the ocean, and a large section of the Santa Cruz Pier collapsed. Authorities reported minor injuries and promptly evacuated the wharf to ensure public safety.